Concordia University

About: Concordia University is a education organization based out in Montreal, Quebec, Canada. It is known for research contribution in the topics: Context (language use) & Control theory. The organization has 13565 authors who have published 31084 publications receiving 783525 citations. The organization is also known as: Sir George Williams University & Loyola College, Montreal.

The contributions of total quality management to a theory of work performance

Abstract: Based on recently proposed principles of total quality management (TQM), a system-focused perspective is considered here with regard to the determinants of work performance The system is seen as an important source of variance affecting performance both indirectly and interactively Moreover, the individual is seen as potentially affecting the system Hierarchical level and autonomy are considered as key moderating variables in understanding individual versus system influences on work performance Implications are discussed with regard to performance management processes in organizations

The cultural shaping of depression: Somatic symptoms in China, psychological symptoms in North America?

Abstract: The expectation that Chinese people present distress somatically is a central prediction of cultural psychopathology and has been the subject of considerable theoretical speculation. At the same time, empirical studies have been infrequent and have yielded mixed results. The authors examined symptom presentation in Chinese (n=175) and Euro-Canadian (n=107) outpatients, using spontaneous problem report, structured clinical interview, and symptom questionnaire methods. All 3 methods yielded cross-culturally equivalent somatic and psychological symptom subscales. Chinese outpatients reported more somatic symptoms on spontaneous problem report and structured clinical interview compared with Euro-Canadians, who in turn reported more psychological symptoms on all 3 methods. The relation between culture and somatic symptom presentation was mediated by a tendency toward externally oriented thinking. Difficulties with identifying emotions or describing them to others did not differ significantly across cultures, supporting a nonpathological interpretation of observed differences. Psychological symptom effects were larger and more consistent than somatic symptom effects; because other studies have confirmed the ubiquity of somatic presentations worldwide, these results suggest that Western psychologization may be more culturally specific than is Chinese somatization.

Comparative genomic analysis of the thermophilic biomass-degrading fungi Myceliophthora thermophila and Thielavia terrestris

Abstract: Thermostable enzymes and thermophilic cell factories may afford economic advantages in the production of many chemicals and biomass-based fuels. Here we describe and compare the genomes of two thermophilic fungi, Myceliophthora thermophila and Thielavia terrestris. To our knowledge, these genomes are the first described for thermophilic eukaryotes and the first complete telomere-to-telomere genomes for filamentous fungi. Genome analyses and experimental data suggest that both thermophiles are capable of hydrolyzing all major polysaccharides found in biomass. Examination of transcriptome data and secreted proteins suggests that the two fungi use shared approaches in the hydrolysis of cellulose and xylan but distinct mechanisms in pectin degradation. Characterization of the biomass-hydrolyzing activity of recombinant enzymes suggests that these organisms are highly efficient in biomass decomposition at both moderate and high temperatures. Furthermore, we present evidence suggesting that aside from representing a potential reservoir of thermostable enzymes, thermophilic fungi are amenable to manipulation using classical and molecular genetics.

Understanding brand equity for successful brand extension

Abstract: The turbulent 1990s typified by increased product development and marketing costs as well as increasing international competition, focussed marketing managers on cost‐saving tactics to increase competitiveness. One of the most important effects was to make brand extensions more compelling and frequent. While leveraging the brand equity of a successful brand promises to make introduction of a new entry less costly, success depends on the underlying brand knowledge and image among consumers. Explores the consumer dimensions of brand equity, the benefits and dangers of brand extension, and culminates in a series of implications and recommendations for successful brand extensions.